The 8 Best Podcast Recording Software (Latest for Mac & PC)

In this guide, we highlight the 8 best podcast recording software for all podcast setups. With many podcast recording software options available, it may be a challenge to choose the best podcast app to work with. We tested many podcast software tools and made a list of the best podcast recording software.

We cover both local and remote recording software to help you choose and learn how to record a podcast. For the advanced podcaster with experience, we include pro level podcast software as well as free options for both Mac and PC. The podcast recording software in our list can also be used as podcast editing software. Let’s begin with some highlights and then expand on each podcast software option.

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Best Remote Podcast Software

Riverside.fm is the best podcast recording software for remote recording.

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Best Business Podcast Software

Podbean is the best podcast recording software for business and networks.

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avid-prootols-podcast-software-perpetual

Best Pro Podcast Software

Avid Pro Tools is the best professional podcast recording software.

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podcast recording software waveform free

Best Free Podcast Software

Waveform by Tracktion is the best free podcast recording software.

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Which podcast software do I need to record my podcast?

To simplify the choices of podcast recording software, we can organize them into 2 categories:
1) Online Application or Software as a Service (SaaS)
2) Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)

Both options can be used for desktop or laptop computers and for mobile (phone, tablet) applications.

Table of Contents

1. Best Podcast Recording Software Online (SaaS)
• 1.1. Riverside
• 1.2. Podbean
• 1.3. SquadCast
• 1.4. Alitu

2. Best Podcast Recording Software for Mac & PC
• 2.1. Avid Pro Tools
• 2.2. Waveform by Tracktion (Free)
• 2.3. Cakewalk by Bandlab (Free)
• 2.4. GarageBand for Mac (Free)

3. Summary
• 3.1. What to consider when choosing podcast recording software?
• 3.2. What is the best software for recording podcasts?
• 3.3. Can I record a podcast for free?
• 3.4. What is the best podcasting software for recording a podcast remotely?
• 3.5 What is the best free podcast editing software?
• 3.6. Conclusion

1. Best Podcast Recording Software Online (SaaS)

What is the Best Podcast Recording Software For Remote Recording?

If you’re looking for podcast recording software as an online app, there are many options to choose from. This type of podcast software is also know as Software as a Service or SaaS for short. It allows you to record your podcast from your computer or mobile device by using the software application that you’re subscribed to.

The benefit of this method is that it allows you to record from anywhere as long as you have an internet connection. It makes it easier to record a podcast remotely if your guests are in a different location than you are and allows you to connect with multiple guests simultaneously who could all be in different cities.

Some of these podcast recording software apps also have basic podcast editing functions to help clean up your podcast recording once completed. They also allow you to download your podcast audio files if you want to hire a podcast editor to edit the podcast for you. Many of these podcast software apps have monthly subscription pricing and some have free plans for you to get started with.

Here are our top recommendations for the best podcast recording software app online:

1. Riverside.fm

(Free to $19/$29 per month)

podcast recording software-riverside — Source: Riverside

Riverside.fm has come to be known as one of the top podcasting software for recording remotely. It is easy to use and you can record a podcast with both audio and up to 4k video. Riverside software records podcasts in studio-grade quality from anywhere, using your internet browser to record and save the files directly to the cloud.

Riverside ensures your podcast recordings will be lag free without interruption by using local recording technology for all participants. Audio quality is high with 48k WAV files for every guest. The recordings get uploaded to the cloud in real time and you can download the audio files for further editing once recorded.

Riverside makes it easy to record your podcast both locally and remotely without needing any extra podcast software.

Pros:
• All in one podcast recording software solution
• Includes podcast recording software for iOS and Android for phones and tablets
• Record your podcast with both audio and video
• Includes a basic audio and video editor
• Live streaming of your podcast to social media
• Unlimited transcriptions with the Pro plan
• Affordable monthly plans for all levels including a free plan

Cons:
• Amount of recording hours is low on the Free and Standard Plans
• Uploading of recorded podcast files requires a stable and fast internet connection

Riverside Prices:

• Basic – Free (2 hours of audio & video tracks)
• Standard – $19/month (5 hours of audio & video tracks)
• Pro – $29/month (15 hours of audio & video tracks)
• Custom – Contact for price (Unlimited audio & video tracks)

With annual prices, you’ll save up to 21% when compared to the monthly plans ($15/$24 per month). Riverside’s free plan is great to test out the platform. For better quality and removal of their watermark, go with the Standard or Pro Plans.

You can try Riverside for free with our link below.

Go to Riverside

2. Podbean

(Free to $9/$29/$99 per month)

podcast recording software-podbean — Source: Podbean

Podbean is the easiest online podcast software to record your podcast. They offer an all in one solution for podcast hosting, podcast monetization, podcast website, podcast marketing and podcast recording. You can record your podcast right from your phone with their podcast recording app. With Podbean you can also stream your podcast live and take calls from your listeners while broadcasting!

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Podbean makes it easy to record your podcast and publish it to the world.

Pros:
• All in one podcast hosting solution
• Includes podcast recording software app to record from your phone
• Has live audio stream capabilities for your podcast
• Affordable monthly plans for all levels including a free plan
• Allows you to make money from your podcast
• Publish your podcast on all major platforms

Cons:
• Requires stable internet connection while recording your podcast
• Podbean branding is present in all plans except the $99/month Business Plan

Podbean Prices:

• Basic – Free
• Unlimited Audio – $9/month
• Unlimited Plus – $29/month
• Business – $99/month (Enterprise Plan)

Podbean’s free plan is great for beginners who are just getting started with podcasting. You get 5 hours of free storage, phone app and your own podcast website. With annual prices, you’ll save up to 35% when compared to the monthly plans ($14/$39/$129 per month).

For more advanced podcasters, you should consider the Unlimited Plus or Business Plans. They include important business features such as monetization ads and paid subscriptions for your podcast.

You can get a free 30 day trial with our link below.

Go to Podbean

3. SquadCast

($20/$40/$80 per month)

podcast-recording-software-squadcast — Source: Squadcast

SquadCast has come to be known as the most reliable podcast recording software with high quality audio and video. It does one thing and it does it better than all the other online podcast recorders. SquadCast is a cloud based podcast recording studio that uses progressive uploads of the podcast audio and video recorded to your local computer. You can record your podcast episodes with confidence knowing all audio and video content is continuously auto-saved and stored in the cloud.

With a simple user interface you can record a podcast from your browser. Podcast audio can be recorded in WAV file format with 16 bit 48k resolution or mp3 format. Podcast video can be recorded with up to 1080p HD quality.

SquadCast software records podcasts in studio-grade quality and you can download your audio and video files for further editing offline. Podcast guests can record remotely by using their browser-based interface without the need to download any software. They simply click a link and join the session. There’s also a Green Room feature to adjust appearance, check equipment, and test audio and video before recording.

SquadCast ensures your podcast recordings will be audio drift free and fully in sync with your video. They make it easy to record your podcast with local and remote guests by the simple use of your browser.

Pros:
• Browser based podcast recording software can be accessed from anywhere
• Record your podcast with both audio and video fully in sync
• Very stable and reliable podcast recorder with continuous backups in real time
• Excellent audio and video quality
• Includes basic editor to clean up and edit your podcast episodes

Cons:
• Doesn’t work with Safari, iOS, and iPadOS (currently in Beta)
• Price can get expensive if recording a lot of hours of podcasts

Squadcast Prices:

• Indie – $20/month (5 hours of audio recording)
• Pro – $40/month (12 hours of video recording)
• Studio – $80/month (25 hours of video recording)
• Enterprise – Contact for price (volume video recording)

There are annual plans for the Pro and Studio which give you 2 months free. If you just need to record audio and 5 hours is enough, then go with the Indie Plan. For video, you’ll need the Pro or Studio Plans.

You can try SquadCast for free with our link below.

Go to SquadCast

4. Alitu

($32 per month or $320 per year)

podcast-recording-software-alitu — Source: Alitu

Alitu is an online podcast recording software application that uses your browser to record your podcast. It is beginner friendly and very easy to use with many extra features included. Alitu is designed to record audio only podcasts and includes podcast editing software to help get your episode completed quickly and easily. It has audio editing algorithms that automate your podcast editing. Along with podcast recording and podcast editing, Alitu offers podcast hosting and free podcast music for your episodes.

A great way to use Alitu is to record multiple podcast guests remotely with their Call Recorder feature. This allows podcast hosts to connect with each other by using their browsers to record their podcast audio. Once the podcast audio is recorded, it can then be edited and cleaned up to be published on podcast platforms.

For podcasters who don’t need detailed audio editing and audio quality control, Alitu is a good basic option to get started fast. Alitu makes it easy to record your podcast with remote guests without needing any extra podcast software.

Pros:
• All in one podcast audio recording software with simple interface
• Automated settings for podcast audio editing
• Record remotely with guests by using web browser
• Beginner friendly and low cost solution
• Includes free music library
• Integrates with popular podcast hosting platforms to publish directly from the app

Cons:
• Remote podcast recording can only be done from browser, no mobile support
• All podcast guests are recorded to one audio file, no track separation
• Podcast editing is very basic with no control over audio quality, mixing and mastering
• Podcast recording is setup for only 1 input at a time

Alitu Prices:

• Monthly – $32/month
• Annually – $320/year (get 2 months free)

With the annual price you’ll get 2 months free. You can try Alitu for free with our link below.

Go to Alitu

When it comes to podcast editing, many podcasters don’t have the skills, desire or time to edit their podcast episodes. This is one of the tasks in podcast production where you can hire a podcast editor to edit your podcast recording into a finished episode. It’s the final step before your podcast is heard by your audience and an experienced podcast editor can make sure your podcast sounds its best.

Learn more about our podcast editing services and feel free to contact us with any questions about your podcast recording.

Learn More

2. Best Podcast Recording Software for Mac & PC

What is the Best Podcast Recording Software For Local Recording?

The DAW version of podcast recording software is when you install and use the software directly from your computer. The main benefit of this option is that you don’t need an internet connection while recording your podcast episodes. It’s the most stable way to record your podcast without the risk of having your podcast recording interrupted by a lost internet connection.

There are many DAW options to choose from including free podcast recording software for Mac and PC platforms. Although many DAWs can also run on phones or tablets as apps, it’s recommended to use a desktop or laptop computer for this type of podcast software. The same DAW software can also be used as podcast editing software.

It’s best to try different software applications and see which one you feel most comfortable with.

Here are our top recommendations for the best podcast recording software:

5. Avid Pro Tools

($599 perpetual license or $9.99/$39.99/$99.99 per month)

podcast-recording-software-protools — Source: Pro Tools

Avid Pro Tools Software is the industry standard audio recording software used by professionals worldwide. It is the top choice for podcast recording software and podcast audio editing software. Pro Tools has been around for over 25 years and they have perfected the DAW for music, audio and podcasts.

Pros:
• Professional industry standard recording software
• Easy to use and visually simple interface
• Easy to collaborate and export in many formats
• Includes free plugins and production software
• Compatible with Mac and Windows

Cons:
• Expensive
• Might be excessive for the beginner podcaster

Avid Pro Tools Prices:

• Perpetual License – $599 (includes 1 year of support and upgrades)
• Pro Tools Artist – $9.99/month (record up to 32 audio tracks)
• Pro Tools Studio – $39.99/month (record up to 64 audio tracks)
• Pro Tools Flex – $99.99/month (record up to 256 audio tracks)

For podcast recording and editing, the Pro Tools Artist Plan is more than enough.

You can buy an Avid Pro Tools perpetual license on Amazon and avoid the monthly subscription costs.

Go to Amazon

6. Waveform by Tracktion

(Free - Mac, Windows, Linux)

podcast-recording-software-waveform-by-tracktion — Source: Waveform

Waveform by Tracktion software is a leading audio recording application which can be used to record your podcast audio. With many advanced features, it also makes a great podcast editing software option for those who want detailed edits to their podcast episodes.

It’s better suited for the intermediate to advanced podcaster who wants full control of the audio recording. For the beginner podcaster, it might be too much too handle when starting out. But with a little patience, it can be learned and applied to get great podcast recordings and edits.

Pros:
• Easy to use and visually simple interface
• Fully featured software with no restrictions
• Includes free plugins and production software
• Record unlimited tracks based on your CPU
• Compatible with Mac, Windows and Linux

Cons:
• May take some time to learn the software
• Might be excessive for the beginner podcaster

Waveform by Tracktion Prices:

• Free

You can get Waveform by Tracktion directly from their website for free.

Go to Waveform

7. Cakewalk by Bandlab

(Free - Windows PC only)

podcast-recording-software-cakewalk-by-bandlab — Source: Cakewalk

Cakewalk by Bandlab software is a another great audio recording application which can be used as podcast recording software. It has been around since 1987 and was once a professional paid application. The software formally known as SONAR was acquired by BandLab Technologies in 2018 and re-released as Cakewalk.

It is a top quality DAW with advanced recording and audio editing features that will make every podcaster happy to be podcasting. It’s a great podcast recording software for those who want full control of their podcast audio.

For those who don’t mind the slight learning curve, it’s well worth learning how to use Cakewalk.

Pros:
• Professional recording software for over 30 years
• Easy to use and visually simple interface
• High quality advanced 64 bit mix engine
• Record unlimited tracks based on your CPU

Cons:
• Compatible with Windows only
• May take some time to learn the software

Cakewalk by Bandlab Price:

• Free

You can get Cakewalk by Bandlab directly from their website for free.

Go to Cakewalk

8. GarageBand

(Free - Mac & iOS only)

podcast-recording-software-garageband — Source: GarageBand

GarageBand by Apple is one the easiest podcast recording software to use. Like all things Apple, it was designed with simplicity in mind. You can start recording your podcast fairly quickly and GarageBand has everything you need in a podcast recording software application.

It’s a favorite among beginners and also works well for intermediate and advanced podcasters. With its simple to use interface and plug and play settings, you can get your podcast episode recorded fast.

What many podcasters do is to record their podcast audio in GarageBand and send the files to an audio editor to finalize their episodes. This helps keep their audio quality high while just focusing on recording their content.

Pros:
• Easy to use interface for quick setup
• Includes free collection of sounds and instruments
• Includes free music production tools
• Record up to 255 tracks with multiple takes
• Compatible with Mac desktop, laptop, iphone and ipad

Cons:
• Compatible with Mac only
• Simple controls might be limiting for advanced podcast editing

GarageBand Price:

• Free

You can get GarageBand from Apple’s app store for free.

Go to GarageBand

Summary

What to consider when choosing podcast recording software?

Whether you’re just starting a podcast or have an established podcast show, choosing the right podcast recording software is an important part of your workflow. The best podcast recording software is the one that makes you most comfortable to work with.

Look for the following features when choosing your podcast recording software:

• The ability to record remotely or locally depending on your setup.
• The ability to record the number of guests on your show on separate tracks.
• Software that doesn’t rely on an internet connection while recording.
• Software that records on the user’s local computer and auto saves the recorded files.
• Has a simple user interface that’s easy to use for you and your guests.
• Has basic podcast editing features and allows the export of files.
• Records high quality audio and video (if you need it).
• Has livestreaming capabilities for future use.
• Has excellent support and tutorials to help you get started.

What is the best software for recording podcasts?

Our top pick for professional level podcast recording software for Mac & PC is Avid Pro Tools. It’s the industry standard and very well developed with all the recording features you will need. Furthermore, it is the top podcast editing software that all the pros use.

Can I record a podcast for free?

If you want a more beginner friendly podcast software, we recommend Garageband for Mac and Waveform by Tracktion or Cakewalk by Bandlab for PC. All three are free software and solid options for podcast recording.

What is the best podcasting software for recording a podcast remotely?

For remote podcast recording, there are software apps that make it easy to record your podcast. If you need to record your podcast remotely with guests located in different cities, we recommend Riverside, Squadcast or Alitu.

For larger podcast networks with many shows, our top pick for business enterprise solutions is Podbean.

What is the best free podcast editing software?

There are many free podcast editing software programs available online. Some of the more popular ones include Garageband (Mac), Waveform by Tracktion (Mac & PC) and Cakewalk by Bandlab (PC Windows).

Each has its own set of features and benefits, so it is important to choose the one that best suits your needs. For example, if you need a program with a lot of advanced features, Waveform and Cakewalk might be the best choices. If you are just starting out and need something simple to use, Garageband might be a better option.

Ultimately, the best free podcast editing software is the one that meets your specific needs and requirements.

Conclusion

We’ve covered the basics in this list of best podcast recording software and will be updating it with more recommendations over time. The podcast genre is a fast growing industry and new podcast software applications are being developed regularly.

We’ll do our best to keep you updated on what’s worth checking out. For a comprehensive list of all the podcast equipment you need to start a podcast, be sure to read our Best Podcast Equipment For Every Budget article for your podcast setup.

Thank you for reading our guide and happy podcasting!

Learn more about our podcast editing services and feel free to contact us with any questions about your podcast recording.

Learn More

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The 8 Best Podcast Recording Software (Latest for Mac & PC)

Which podcast software do I need to record my podcast?

1. Best Podcast Recording Software Online (SaaS)

What is the Best Podcast Recording Software For Remote Recording?

1. Riverside.fm

2. Podbean

3. SquadCast

4. Alitu

2. Best Podcast Recording Software for Mac & PC

What is the Best Podcast Recording Software For Local Recording?

5. Avid Pro Tools

6. Waveform by Tracktion

7. Cakewalk by Bandlab

8. GarageBand

Summary

What to consider when choosing podcast recording software?

What is the best software for recording podcasts?

Can I record a podcast for free?

What is the best podcasting software for recording a podcast remotely?

What is the best free podcast editing software?

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